Cosplay is popular all over the world with video game fanatics and comic book readers alike. Cosplay comes in a range of styles and genres; some of the favorite cosplay characters come from anime, comic books, video games and films.

If you’ve heard about cosplay and you’ve always been curious to find out more – since most of your friends do it – then below is a beginner’s guide to cosplay to help you out. If you are used to spending your Saturday’s at home, playing FoxyBingo whilst chatting to your friends on Skype then this is certainly a change from what you’re used to – you will have to socialise face to face rather than interactively and act as your chosen character. Cosplay is even more enjoyable if you’re a confident person who enjoys acting, dressing up and having fun.

Tip 1 – It is important that you choose a character who you like and can relate to. You will have to mimic their personality (around the con, or for photos) so make sure you study your character’s mannerisms so you know how they carry themselves.

Tip 2 – Make sure you have a couple of signature or distinct poses which define your character. Try and find poses which you feel expresses the character best. It is important to try and bring your character to life by combining their mannerisms, their posture and their accent.

Tip 3 – In the word of cosplay, it is more about taking part and having fun rather than winning. You don’t have to enter cosplay purely to try and win competitions.

Tip 4 – Cosplayers are all equal so never treat others inferior to you. Plus, there will probably be someone else with the same outfit as you – see this as a good thing and bounce constructive criticism off each other.

Tip 5 – Try not to carry a sign around with you saying who your character is. This looks tacky and gives the impression you haven’t put as much effort into your outfit as you could have.